Billy Graham - Cut yourself off from temptation before it’s too late

Q: Please pray for me. Iím being tempted to have an affair with a woman Iíve gotten close to at work. I know itís stupid and Iíll probably end up hurting a lot of people (including our families), but Iím still not sure I can resist. Whatís your advice? ó R.L.

A: I donít think Iíve ever met a person who went down the road youíre thinking of traveling ó and was glad afterward that they did so. I can guarantee you wonít be the exception. The Bible says, ďCan a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned ?.... So is he who sleeps with another manís wifeĒ (Proverbs 6:27 ,29 ).

My advice first of all would be to cut yourself off completely from this situation ó even if it means changing jobs. At a minimum, break off your contact with this person ó and perhaps tell her why, so she knows youíre serious. Donít assume you can back away ďjust a little bitĒ and still keep temptation at bay; it probably wonít happen. Paul told his young pastor friend Timothy to ďFlee the evil desires of youthĒ (2 Timothy 2:22).

But second, I urge you to do everything you possibly can to strengthen your own marriage. God gave your wife and your family to you; donít turn your back on His good gifts. Spend time together; listen to each other; be patient with your spouse; express your appreciation for her. Marriages usually donít suddenly collapse; instead, they just drift apart. Make it your goal to restore your marriage ó and you can, with Godís help.

Most of all, turn your life over to Jesus Christ. Right now, youíre fencing Him out (so to speak); break down the fence and let Him in. Youíll never regret it.